Every problem is simply a badly defined opportunity. As the Creative Director of Phlogiston, I get the daily opportunity (aka I deal with a lot of problems) to collaborate with our clients as we harness the power of storytelling and design to produce innovative solutions. In terms of methodology I tend to approach work through three lenses: (i) relational (systems); (ii) cyclical (choosing iterations, not linear thinking); and (iii) harmony (that can only be found if there is tension between two points).Relational: Relationships underscore every single thing. It's best that we pay attention to it.Cyclical: It obvious once it's done. Usually, it's the mistakes that are the most obvious. Therefore learn to think in terms of iterations; chase prototypes & MVPs. How? Observe and research, but don't over-extend (we will never know everything). Envision and strategise, but don't overthink it (our brains, well at least my brain, is not that impressive). Do and create, but don't over-scrutinise (I'll deliberately misrepresent the 80/20 principle to make a point). Release and test. Observe, learn and rethink (if you're overly confident this might be painful). Rethink, but don't overthink. Harmony: How do you know when is too much thinking or too much doing? You don't, it's a tension (but having experience does help a lot). Tensions can be found in many places, such as choosing to draw upon experiences vs deliberate ignorance and naivety (I'll ask the stupid questions that everyone else might be too afraid to ask). Another tension can be found in collaboration: an invigorating type of dynamism is created when we mix a creative team that is tested and trusted together with problem owners and their team. The trick is to actively define and navigate tensions, and then to find harmony within them. In terms of worldview I firmly believe that tomorrow can be a lot better than today, both for myself and for others. It often isn't, but I seek to take responsibility within the areas that I can influence and aim to contribute towards a better tomorrow. It's from this perspective why I enjoy learning and personal development, driven by the knowledge and reassurance that if I happen to be the problem, then I am truly empowered to create an opportunity.